The Federal Government of Nigeria has called on the country's writers to utilise their voices to address national challenges and promote solutions. This appeal was made by Senator George Akume, the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, at the 45th International Convention and Conference of the Association of Nigerian Authors. The event took place on October 30, 2026, at the ANA Writers Village in Mpape, Abuja. Akume emphasised the crucial role of writers in fostering peace, security, and national development.
Akume acknowledged that literature is a vital tool for drawing attention to societal challenges and giving voice to the experiences of ordinary citizens. He noted that through various literary works, writers can expose injustices, highlight community hardships, and communicate issues that statistics may not adequately capture. While encouraging writers to continue holding the government accountable, Akume cautioned against using words to incite violence or promote hatred among Nigerians. He emphasised the importance of freedom of expression and the right to question those in authority.
The SGF urged members of the Association of Nigerian Authors to remain honest and outspoken about the country's challenges while promoting constructive engagement and practical solutions. He stressed that criticism of the government should aim to deepen public understanding rather than fuel division. Akume's remarks were echoed by Senator Ekong Bassey, who called on the government to take Nigerian writers more seriously, citing their long history of highlighting issues threatening the country's future.
Senator Ekong Bassey emphasised the need for collaboration between the government and writers to address Nigeria's security challenges. He urged authors to engage more closely with government institutions rather than viewing them as distant establishments. This sentiment was also expressed by Dr Usman Oladipo Akanbi, the National President of ANA, who commended the Federal Government for supporting Nigerian writers through the provision of land for the Writers Village in Mpape.
Dr Akanbi also highlighted the government's efforts to facilitate access to benefits under the Reproduction Rights Society of Nigeria Act 2022. However, he called for stronger efforts to improve national security and create an environment where Nigerians, particularly young people, can have hope for a better future. Akanbi warned that reforms, no matter how well-intentioned, are unlikely to succeed if citizens perceive them as punishment.
The ANA National President stressed that national development requires responsible leadership and active citizen participation. He also urged politicians and political actors to exercise restraint ahead of the 2027 general elections, warning against political bitterness and violence. Akanbi emphasised the need for the electoral process to be conducted in an atmosphere of peace, unity, and mutual respect.
The Association of Nigerian Authors and the government are expected to work together to promote national development and address the country's challenges. The collaboration aims to foster a culture of responsible leadership, active citizen participation, and constructive engagement. Key to this effort is the role of writers in promoting solutions and criticising responsibly.
Key points
- The Nigerian government has urged writers to promote solutions and criticise responsibly.
- The government and writers must work together to address Nigeria's security challenges.
- National development requires responsible leadership and active citizen participation.
